Colca River Expedition

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Dates: April to November

Price: $1990 per person

Highlights

  • Navigate deep canyon walls.
  • See Andean condors with 3m wingspans.
  • Tackle Class V rapids in lunar landscapes.
  • Explore ancient pre-Inca terraces.
  • Enjoy natural hot springs.

The canyon was formed by a massive geological fault between the two enormous volcanoes of Coropuna (6425m) and Ampato (6318m), eroded over thousands of years by the longest river on the Peruvian coast. The Colca River reaches depths of up to 3,400 meters on both slopes, extends over 200 km long, and forms part of a gigantic watershed that empties into the Pacific.

Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world, located in southern Peru. It is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, traditional villages, and as a habitat for the Andean condor, a majestic bird with a wingspan of up to 3 meters. The canyon is a popular destination for trekking, cultural tourism, and birdwatching. Visitors can also explore pre-Inca terraces still used for agriculture and enjoy hot springs in the surrounding area.

Lovers of wild and magnificent nature should not miss a chance to get to know the Lunar Canyon of the Colca and its neighboring regions. The canyon itself, with walls that reach at least 4000 meters above the level of the river on one side and more than 3000 m on the other, is incomparable. It is the deepest known canyon in the world.

From its crystalline waters, the walls often open to vistas of towering snow peaks. The “Cruz del Condor,” at the foot of Mt. Mismi, from whose north slope flows the Apurimac River and thus the Amazon, and the “Chocolate Canyon,” are of unimaginable gigantic proportions.

For canoeists, the Colca is beyond compare. The technical difficulties at times are almost insurmountable and put even the most skillful to the test. They are compensated by the adventure and excitement of running a river devoid of all vegetation, accompanied by otters and black salmon in the waters and condors in the skies, surrounded by lunar landscapes and figures carved by erosion into the rocks and volcanic lava, and the colors of the walls with their intermixed geological strata. It is one of the most beautiful, the most thrilling, the most interesting rivers of the world.

Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival to Lima

We meet you on your arrival in Lima and transfer you to a comfortable hotel for overnight.

Day 2: Arequipa/City Tour

In the morning fly to Arequipa. Transfer to our camping place “El Lago” and welcome with a “Pisco Sour”, and an orientation meeting. We tour the city in the afternoon, visiting interesting monuments including a 17th century cloister convent (Santa Catalina) and others. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 3: Arequipa/Huambo

Early departure in our private vehicle. From the canyon near Chivay and Cabanaconde, there are fantastic panoramas of snow peaks to enjoy. We encounter alpacas, llamas and sheep all along the way, vicuñas in the Aguada Blanca Reserve and sometimes even little vizcachas.

At lunch we arrive to the picturesque Chivay town with interesting farming terraces. We continue along deep valleys and Indian communities to reach the lookout point “Cruz del Condor” (1200 meters above the riverbed), and have our first glance of the deep Colca Canyon, and contemplate the silent glide of the condors.

In late afternoon we arrive to Huambo and camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 4: Huambo/Hacienda Canco

In Huambo (3,380 masl) we travel through the valley of Huambo River which is very picturesque with deep canyons and strange figures in the volcanic lava. We camp by the river shore. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 5: Colca River

After breakfast, we follow up the river on an old Inca road to visit the most beautiful cascades of the whole canyon, called “Juan Pablo II Cascades”. We get into the canyon and have our first contact with the river. From the left bank the Huambo River falls in from a 10m cascade, and further down on the right the Mamacocha River with its turquoise and warm waters enters. Very exciting day in this colorful canyon. Class V rapids (Possible portages). Camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 6: Colca River

The speed of the current makes it possible to navigate swiftly, maneuvering easily between the large boulders in the riverbed. We find thermal springs that fall into the Colca from more than 10 meters up and create beautifully shaped and colored stalactites. The Jasmin River flows into the Colca through a lovely canyon that meets the Colca’s on the left. Many class III-IV-V rapids make it an intense day. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 7: Colca River

Canyon with piles of sand and rocks in the curves. We find a cascade several hundred meters high called the “Condor’s Shower”, where condors are abundant. New and very different rock formations on the canyon walls. Canyon gets narrow, and the vertical walls are several hundred meters high. We challenge the famous “Rapid of the Peruvians”. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 8: Colca River (Chocolate Canyon)

Entrance to another canyon, rocky formation in all shades of chocolate. This is the highest part of the whole Colca Canyon, the right wall is more than 4000 meters higher than the level of the river and left one more than 3000 mt. Many rapids class IV-V. Lots of action. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 9: Colca River (Reparaz Canyon)

Canyon with totally vertical walls. River running very fast in a rock channel 20-30 meters wide. The banks are covered with dry rocks from the ravines. Unforgettable day. Tonight we enjoy a warm fire under the stars. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 10: Colca River (Pole’s Canyon)/Arequipa

Last canyon of the river. We get to the most difficult rapid of the trip. (At Km. 42 from Canco, 120 mt. long and with a 12 mt. drop). Then the canyon narrows again and the river flows smoothly. Suddenly the walls open out and the river enters a wide canyon with sloping walls. The Colca enters a valley, changing its name to Majes. At our takeout point the vehicle will be waiting to take us back to a comfortable hotel in Arequipa. Farewell dinner. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Day 11: Lima/Home/Cuzco Extension

Fly back to Lima, you enjoy a day on your own, with plenty of time for shopping, relaxing and celebrating. Next day transfer to the airport for your flight home. Meals: Breakfast.

What’s Included

  • All transfers on scheduled arrival and departure days
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner)
  • Professional river guides
  • Rafting and camping equipment
  • Double occupancy tents and hotel
  • Wranglers

What’s Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Airport taxes
  • Sleeping bag and pad
  • Personal gear
  • Personal expenses
  • Gratuities for guides

Frequently Asked Questions

What experience level is required for your rafting trips?

Our trips accommodate all levels, from beginners on our Class II-III trips like Urubamba to experienced rafters seeking Class V challenges on the Futaleufú, Cotahuasi, and Colca rivers. Our guides provide comprehensive safety training and instruction before every trip.

What's included in the trip price?

Our prices typically include professional guides, safety equipment, rafting gear, all meals during the expedition, camping equipment, and scheduled transfers. International airfare, sleeping bags, personal gear, and gratuities are generally not included. Check each specific trip for full details.

How physically demanding are the trips?

Trip difficulty varies from moderate half-day adventures to demanding multi-day expeditions. Longer trips like Cotahuasi include a challenging 14-mile hike. We recommend being in good physical condition, especially for Class IV-V trips that require strength and stamina for consecutive days of paddling.

What safety measures do you have in place?

Safety is our primary concern. We employ professional guides with swift water rescue and wilderness first responder certifications, provide comprehensive safety equipment, conduct thorough briefings, use safety kayakers on challenging runs, and carry first-aid kits. Our itineraries are designed with safety contingencies in mind.

What wildlife might we see during the trips?

Wildlife varies by location. In Peru's Tambopata, you might see macaws, monkeys, capybaras, giant otters, and possibly jaguars. The Colca Canyon is known for Andean condors, while Chilean Patagonia offers opportunities to spot condors, huemul deer, and various bird species. Each ecosystem offers unique biodiversity experiences.

What should I pack for a rafting expedition?

Essential items include quick-drying clothes, swimwear, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses with retention strap), water bottle, personal medications, and toiletries. For multi-day trips, bring a headlamp, warm layers for evenings, and a small towel. A complete packing list is provided prior to departure.

What are the sleeping arrangements on multi-day trips?

On multi-day river expeditions, we camp on beaches or designated sites, often in spectacular settings like Inca terraces on the Cotahuasi or pristine beaches in Tambopata. We provide double-occupancy tents and camping equipment, though you'll need to bring your own sleeping bag and pad (rentals may be available).

How challenging are the rapids on your various trips?

Our trips range from Class II-III (Urubamba) suitable for beginners to Class V (Futaleufú, Cotahuasi, Colca, Apurimac) for experienced rafters. Class II-III features moderate rapids with regular waves, while Class IV-V involves powerful currents, complex maneuvers, and potentially dangerous conditions requiring advanced skills and experience.

What kind of cultural experiences can I expect?

Many of our trips offer rich cultural experiences, from exploring ancient Inca ruins along the Cotahuasi to visiting traditional Andean villages. You'll experience local cuisine, potentially interact with indigenous communities, and gain insights into the historical and cultural significance of these remote regions.

Do I need prior rafting experience for the expeditions?

For beginner trips like Urubamba (Class II-III), no experience is necessary. For challenging Class IV-V expeditions like Futaleufú or Colca, previous rafting experience is strongly recommended. Even on easier trips, your guides will provide thorough instruction and safety briefings before you start.

What happens in case of medical emergencies in remote locations?

Our guides are trained in wilderness first response and carry appropriate first-aid supplies. For serious emergencies, we have evacuation protocols specific to each river. Due to the remote nature of many of our trips, comprehensive travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage is required for all participants.

When is the best time to go rafting in Peru and Chile?

The optimal rafting season varies by location. In Peru, the best time is typically from May to November during the dry season. The Futaleufú in Chile runs from December to March during the southern hemisphere summer. Each river has its prime season when water levels and weather conditions are optimal.

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